Don't Forget These Back-to-School Essentials

August 18, 2026

Back-to-school season comes with a lot of excitement and a lot of to-do lists. Whether you're sending a child off to kindergarten or helping a teen navigate a new schedule, York Region is here to help your family start the school year strong.

Here are four ways parents and caregivers can get ready:

1. Plan your trip to school

York Region Transit (YRT) School Special routes resume in September, helping students get to and from school safely and conveniently.

Did you know? YRT’s 400-series School Special routes provide direct travel to and from your high school to meet your bell time in the morning and pick you up after school is over.

What parents can do:

  • Use transit to help reduce traffic around schools
  • Review transit routes, fare payment and schedules before the first day of school
  • Encourage older students to plan their trip in advance

New to YRT? Review transit basics, including trip planning, fare payment and riding safely before the first day of school by visiting yrt.ca/NewtoYRT

2. Travel safely

The return to school means more students walking, cycling and travelling on York Region roads. To help keep everyone safe, York Region continues to invest in school zone safety improvements, including enhanced pavement markings designed to improve visibility and encourage drivers to slow down.

Did you know? Wearing a certified helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries by 85%.  

Remember to:

  • Slow down and obey posted speed limits in school zones
  • Watch for crossing guards, pedestrians, cyclists and school buses
  • Talk to children about safe walking habits, including using designated crossings and staying alert near roads
  • Educate children and youth on cycling safety, including wearing a properly fitted helmet and understanding the rules that apply to e-bikes and e-scooters
  • Stay alert during busy drop-off and pick-up times

Learn more about school zone safety initiatives at york.ca/TrafficSafety

3. Check immunizations and healthy habits

Back-to-school is a good time to make sure children's immunizations are up-to-date and health records are current.

Did you know? York Region Public Health offers immunization clinics throughout the year in the communities of Georgina, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill and Vaughan.

What parents can do:

  • Review your child’s immunization record through ICON to confirm York Region Public Health has the most up-to-date information
  • Update or report any new or missing immunization information
  • Book a catch-up immunization appointment in one of our immunization clinics
  • Explore resources on eye exams, dental coverage, mental well-being, physical activity and healthy lunches

Visit york.ca/HealthyKids for more family resources and information.

4. Pack lunches and reduce food waste

Uneaten lunches can add up quickly. Packing the right portions, using leftovers creatively and choosing reusable containers can help families reduce food waste while saving time and money.

Did you know? 63% of household food waste in Canada could be saved and eaten, saving households approximately $1,500 each year or $125 per month!

Try these simple tips:

  • Pack a variety of foods, including vegetables and fruit, whole grains and proteins
  • Pack foods your child enjoys and is likely to eat
  • Choose water in a reusable bottle instead of sugary drinks
  • Use leftovers for lunches and snacks
  • Pack reusable containers and cutlery to help reduce waste

Find food waste reduction, meal planning and recycling tips at york.ca/GoodFood